Compositions and methods for removing hair styling aids

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are compositions for solubilizing and/or removing a hair styling aid composition from hair. The compositions comprise at least one active solvent, wherein the active solvent is a glycol or an ester; and a carrier composition comprising a liquid vehicle. Also disclosed are methods for solubilizing and/or removing hair styling aids from hair.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of hair careproducts and, more particularly, to compositions and methods forsolubilizing and/or removing hair styling aids that have been applied tohair.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Among a wide variety of hair styling techniques used today, hair weavesare often chosen as a popular hair supplement for a particular stylingregime. These weaves are typically either sown in by a stylist, “glued”in with resins, or, more often, attached to the existing hair andsurrounding scalp with a latex rubber bonding agent. Subsequent removalof these weaves from hair is challenging as it causes painful hairpulling, hair damage, and even subsequent hair loss.

Commercially available hair bonding agent removers are generally limitedto shampoos containing harsh detergent-type surfactants and/orirritating chemicals such as mineral spirits and kerosene. These shampooproducts are marginally effective at softening the bonding materialbecause the acceptable amount of the active chemical, i.e., the mineralspirits and/or kerosene, must be kept low in order to prevent excessivescalp irritation. Further, the surfactant/degreaser combination oftendries out the hair, and even irritates the scalp. Oily materials such asmineral oil and various natural oils have also been used to removebonding agents. However, these products must be left on the hair forlong periods of time in order to obtain any noticeable effect on thebonding material. As such, neither of these current approaches yieldssatisfactory results as painful hair pulling, hair damage, hair loss,and scalp dryness and irritation are often associated with the use ofthese formulations.

In addition to hair weave bonding agents, a variety of hair styling aidscontaining resinous fixatives, such as gels, sprays, spritzes, andmousses, are also frequently used to maintain styled hair in aparticular curl or configuration. The removal of resinous build up fromthe hair has also presented a challenge to the industry. In particular,the removal of the resinous styling product buildup from the hair iscurrently accomplished in one of two ways. One option is to utilizemultiple applications of a “stripping” shampoo during which vigorousmanipulation of the hair is used to forcibly break the adhesion betweenhair fibers and loosen the styling residue on individual hairs.Alternatively, a comb or brush is used to break the adhesions betweenhair fibers followed by multiple applications of a stripping shampoo andvigorous manipulation of the hair to loosen styling residues fromindividual hairs.

These so-called stripping shampoo products of the current art containhigh loadings of harsh surfactants designed to act as detergents on thehair. Stripping shampoos are also formulated to have an alkaline pH (pH8.0 to pH 10) to enhance their “detergency”. The combination of alkalinepH and high surfactant loading can: 1) cause hair to swell which in turncauses lifting of the protective cuticle layer; 2) remove hairs naturalprotective/lubricating oils and moisturizing agents from the hair andthe scalp; and 3) enhance the tangling effect created by the vigorousmanipulation of the hair. The end results of the use of the strippingshampoos of the current art are that the hair is left in a swollen statewith lifted cuticle edges, little or no remaining natural lubrication ormoisturization, and severely tangled from the vigorous manipulation.Accordingly, both methods of removing resinous styling residues from thehair can create severe hair damage and can result in undesirableside-effects for the consumer.

Further, these stripping shampoos are not always effective at completelyremoving heavy styling aide build-up on the hair. The failure tocompletely and adequately remove the styling residue can 1) createincreased drag during any subsequent combing caused by lifted prills ofresin; 2) make the hair look as though there is residual dirt or debrison it; and 3) contribute to the consumer perception of “dandruff”because the loosened material subsequently falls from the hair onto thescalp and shoulders over time. The perception of dandruff then causesthe consumer to use further harsh shampoo treatments in an attempt toeliminate the dandruff problem.

Even more damaging to the hair and scalp is the process whereby theconsumer or salon professional attempts to “comb-out” the stylingresidues before shampooing. This method is recognized as a leading causeof hair breakage and scalp irritation/damage by both consumers and salonprofessionals alike but is often perceived as the only effective way toremove excessive styling residues from the hair.

Unfortunately, the current art limits the options available to personsseeking to apply subsequent treatments to hair that has been previouslytreated with a resinous fixative styling aid. For instance, persons whowish to use chemical treatments such as hair straighteners or curlyperms are at a disadvantage when using the products available in thecurrent art. Shampooing the hair and scalp to remove styling residuesprior to applying hair straighteners or curly perms can cause theseproducts to irritate or burn the scalp. This is especially true when thestripping shampoos of the current art are used. The manufacturers ofhair straightening and curling products usually include a warningstatement requiring the consumer to wait at least 24 to 48 hours aftershampooing before subsequently applying the straightening or curlingproducts. The consumer must either: (1) shampoo and wait, (2) shampooand risk irritation by immediately using the straightener, or (3) notshampoo and attempt to brush the styling residues from the hair. Each ofthese options involves unnecessary risk to the health of the consumer'shair and scalp.

The current art also does not provide for a suitable means by which aconsumer can efficiently re-arrange his or her hair from one style toanother without having to remove a prior application of a styling aid.In particular, the current art does not offer an option of loosening aprevious curl pattern, re-arranging the hair to another style, andlocking the hair into place with additional fixative.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for compositions that can, inone aspect, be used to remove hair bonding agents from hair and scalpwithout resulting in painful hair pulling, significant hair damage,significant hair loss, and scalp dryness and irritation. Additionally,there also is a need in the art for compositions that can solubilizeresinous hair styling aids such that, in one aspect, the hair stylingaid can be removed or, in another aspect, the styled hair can berestyled to a different curl configuration without requiring the removalof a prior application of a styling aid.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides compositions and methods for solubilizingand/or removing hair styling aids, including for example, resinousfixatives and latex based hair-bonding agents.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a composition for removinga hair styling aid from hair. The composition comprises at least oneactive solvent, wherein the at least one active solvent is a glycoland/or an ester, and a carrier composition comprising a liquid vehicle.As described herein, the composition is suitable for applying to hairand removing a hair styling composition applied thereto.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for removinga hair styling agent from hair. The method comprises contacting hairthat has a hair styling agent applied thereto with one or moreapplications of a styling agent remover for a time sufficient tosolubilize the styling agent. In one aspect, the styling agent removercomprises at least one solvent, wherein the at least one active solventis a glycol and/or an ester. After the application has remained incontact with the hair for a suitable period of time, the treated haircan be combed to disrupt or separate any two or more hairs that may beadhered by the hair styling agent. After combing, the solubilizedstyling agent can then be removed from the hair.

In another aspect, the present invention further provides a method forrestyling hair having one or more styling agents previously appliedthereto. The method according to this aspect can comprise contactinghair having a styling agent previously applied thereto with one or moreapplications of a styling agent remover for a time sufficient tosolubilize the styling agent and to provide treated hair having thesolubilized styling agent applied thereto. The hair having solubilizedstyling agent applied thereto can then be restyled into a desiredconfiguration. After restyling, the solubilized styling agent can be atleast substantially dried to secure the restyled hair in the desiredconfiguration.

In still a further aspect, the present invention also provides a methodof moisturizing and softening hair. The compositions of the presentinvention can be used to enhance the perception of resin-styled hair.This is can be accomplished by contacting resin-styled hair with thecompositions of the present invention and allowing sufficient contacttime for the composition to penetrate through the resin coating and intothe hair fiber. This step can be followed by at least substantiallydrying the hair or the hair can be left to dry naturally.

The perception of enhanced hair softness can be accomplished bypenetrating any existing resin coating with a hairsoftening/moisturizing agent without first having to remove the resincoating. The softening/moisturizing agent acts as a plasticizing agentto impart increased flexibility to the hair fiber. Likewise, thecompositions of the current invention can be used on hair which does nothave a resin coating but is in need of a softening/moisturizer treatment(e.g. beard hair). The treatment can in one aspect comprise amoisturizing treatment for resin-styled hair. In another aspect, thetreatment can comprise softening coarse hair. The method comprises firstproviding hair in need of treatment. The hair can then be contacted withone or more applications of a treatment composition comprising i) atleast one active solvent, wherein the at least one active solvent is aglycol or an ester; and ii) a carrier comprising a liquid vehicle. Afterthe application of the treatment composition, the composition is allowedto remain in contact with the hair in need of treatment for a period oftime sufficient to at least substantially penetrate the hair.

Additional embodiments of the invention will be set forth, in part, inthe detailed description, and any claims that follow, and in part willbe derived from the detailed description, or can be learned by practiceof the invention. It is to be understood that both the foregoing generaldescription and the following detailed description are exemplary andexplanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as disclosed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description of the invention is provided as an enablingteaching of the invention in its best, currently known embodiment. Tothis end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize andappreciate that many changes can be made to the various embodiments ofthe invention described herein, while still obtaining the beneficialresults of the present invention. It will also be apparent that some ofthe desired benefits of the present invention can be obtained byselecting some of the features of the present invention withoututilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art willrecognize that many modifications and adaptations to the presentinvention are possible and can even be desirable in certaincircumstances and are a part of the present invention. Thus, thefollowing description is provided as illustrative of the principles ofthe present invention and not in limitation thereof.

It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referentsunless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example,reference to a “glycol” includes mixtures of glycols.

Often ranges are expressed herein as from “about” one particular value,and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range isexpressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/orto the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed asapproximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understoodthat the particular value forms another aspect. It will be furtherunderstood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant bothin relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the otherendpoint.

A weight percent of a component, unless specifically stated to thecontrary, is based on the total weight of the formulation or compositionin which the component is included.

By the term “effective amount” of a compound or property as providedherein is meant such amount as is capable of performing the function ofthe compound or property for which an effective amount is expressed. Aswill be pointed out below, the exact amount required will vary fromprocess to process, depending on recognized variables such as thecompounds employed and the processing conditions observed. For example,an effective amount of a solubilizing composition will depend, in part,on the amount and/or type of hair styling aid being solubilized, thestrength of the solubilizer composition applied and the condition of thehair prior to application of the solubilizing agent. Thus, it is notpossible herein to specify an exact “effective amount.” However, anappropriate effective amount may be determined by one of ordinary skillin the art using only routine experimentation.

In a first aspect summarized above, the present invention providescompositions for solubilizing hair styling aids, such as latex bondingagents and resinous styling residues, which have been applied to hair.As will be set forth in more detail below, once solubilized, the stylingagents can be removed from the hair or, alternatively, the hair havingthe solubilized styling aid applied thereon can be restyled and set to adesired configuration without the need to first remove a previousapplication of the styling aid.

The compositions of the present invention generally comprise at leastone active solvent and a carrier and are further suitable for applyingto hair to solubilize a hair styling composition that has beenpreviously applied thereto. As used herein, the term “active solvent”refers to a solvent that is capable of at least partially dissolvingstyling residues, glues, and/or bonding agents to thereby disrupt orbreak the fixative bonds formed between two or more fibers. Suitableactive solvents that can be used in the inventive compositions includeone or more glycols, such as propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, andtripropylene glycol. Additionally, in another aspect, the suitableactive solvent includes one or more esters, such as methyl soyate. Asshown in the Examples which follow, the aforementioned commerciallyavailable non-toxic solvents are effective for removing hair bondingagents like latex rubber and resinous styling residues from hair.Further, these solvents are listed on the GRAS (Generally Regarded AsSafe) list published by the FDA and are considered non-toxic,non-irritating, and safe for use on skin and hair.

The amount of active solvent used in the composition of the presentinvention can range from 0.1 weight percent up to 85 weight percentbased upon the total weight of the composition, including for example,such amounts as 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70,or even 75 weight percent. Still further, the active solvent can bepresent in an amount within any range derived from the aforementionedweight percentages. For example, the active solvent can be present in anamount in the range of from 5 to 85 weight percent, 15 to 85 weightpercent, or even 15 to 60 weight percent. Still further, in an aspectcomprising a plurality of active solvents, it should be understood thatthe plurality of active solvents can each be present in any amount orrange of amounts such that the total weight percentage of the pluralityof active solvents is in that range of from 0.1 weight percent up to 85weight percent based upon the total weight of the composition.

In addition to the active solvent component, the compositions of thepresent invention further comprise a carrier comprised of at least oneliquid vehicle. The liquid vehicle can in one aspect be water.Alternatively, in another aspect, the liquid vehicle can be selectedfrom a lower (C1-C4) alkanol, including for example, ethanol orisopropanol. Likewise, the liquid vehicle can be comprised of blends oftwo or more liquid vehicles such as, for example, water and lower(C1-C4) alkanols. The liquid vehicle can also be present in any amountranging from, for example, 15 weight percent up to 99.9 weight percentof the composition, including such exemplary amounts as 20, 25, 30, 35,40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 weight percent of thecomposition. The liquid vehicle can also be present in an amount withinany range derived from the above mentioned values. Still further, in anaspect comprising a plurality of liquid vehicles, it should beunderstood that the plurality of liquid vehicles can each be present inany amount or range of amounts such that the total weight percentage ofthe plurality of liquid vehicles is in that range of from 15 weightpercent up to 99.9 weight percent of the composition.

The carrier can also optionally comprise and one or more carrieradditives. The carrier additives are optional components in theformulations that can be used to provide particularly desired physicaland or chemical properties to the finished product. Additionally, theseadditives can also be used to provide additional therapeutic qualitiesto the compositions of the present invention. For example, carrieradditives which may be present in the solubilizing compositions of thepresent invention include, but are not limited to: (1) emulsifiers,lubricants, surfactants, rheology modifiers, viscosity adjusters, foamstabilizers, and polymeric thickening agents; (2) pH adjusting agentsand buffering agents designed to prevent age-induced changes in formulacharacteristics or surfactant degradation; and (3) specialty additiveswhich impart improved organoleptic properties to the solubilizingcomposition and/or the treated hair (examples include fragrances,strengtheners, moisturizers conditioning agents, proteins, re-fattingagents, anti-irritants, etc.). Such materials and the incorporationthereof into hair care products are generally well-known to one orordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, except for the specificexemplary and non-limiting carrier additives described below, theincorporation of such additives is not discussed in detail herein.

For example, in one aspect an exemplary strengthener suitable for use inthe instant invention is Soybean Oil. As one of skill in the art willappreciate, Soybean oil can soften and strengthen skin and/or hair towhich it is applied. Further, soybean oil also exhibits moisturizingeffects for the skin and hair as well. When used, a strengthener such assoybean oil can be present in an amount in the range of from 0 up toapproximately 45 weight percent of the total composition, including suchexemplary amounts as 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 weight percent, oreven any amount in a range derived from these values. Exemplary soybeanoils are commercially available from Columbus Foods Company, Chicago,Ill.

In still another aspect, carrot oil or carrot root extract can be addedto the composition as an additive for conditioning and moisturizing dryhair and skin. An exemplary commercially available carrot oil productsuitable for use as a carrier additive is the Crodarom Carrot 0available from Croda, Inc. Crodarom Carrot 0 is an exemplary carrot rootextract that is capable of conditioning and moisturizing rough, driedskin and or hair. Although a carrot oil or extract can be used in anydesired amount, the carrot root extract is typically used in the presentcompositions in an amount ranging from approximately 0 to 0.5 weightpercent of the total composition, including such exemplary amounts as0.1, 0.2, 0.3, or 0.4 weight percent, or even any amount in a rangederived from these values. Relatively low molecular weight polyethyleneglycols can also be used as effective moisturizing agents. For example,PEG-75 Lanolin Oil, commercially available from Croda, Inc., is anexemplary polyethylene glycol moisturizer additive that can be used inthe compositions of the present invention. While it can be present inany desired amount, polyethylene glycol moisturizing additives are inone aspect used in an amount in the range of from 0 to 5 weight percentof the total composition, including exemplary amounts of 1, 2, 3, or 4weight percent of the total composition. Still further, a polyethyleneglycol additive can also be present in any amount within a range derivedfrom the above mentioned values.

One or more emulsifiers can also be included in the carrier compositionas an optional carrier additive. For example, a polysorbate additive canoptionally be used in the carrier composition as an emulsifier. As oneof skill in the art will appreciate, an emulsifier such as polysorbate,can be incorporated into an aqueous based formulation to facilitate thecoupling of water soluble components with water insoluble components.While an emulsifier can be present in any amount necessary to achievethe desired function, in one aspect an emulsifier can be present in theinventive compositions in an amount ranging from 0 to 10 weight percentbased upon the total weight of the composition, including exemplaryamounts of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or even 9 weight percent. Stillfurther an emulsifier can also be present in an amount within any rangederived from the above mentioned values. Several polysorbate emulsifiersare commercially available, including for example, Polysorbate 20 andPolysorbate 80, commercially available from ICI, Americas, Inc.,Bridgewater, N.J., under the trade name Tween® 20 and Tween® 80.

In still another aspect, the compositions of the present inventioncomprise a lubricant carrier additive such as, for example,cyclomethicone. Cyclomethicone is a silicone polymer that can aid inplasticizing the solubilizer composition. Additionally, cyclomethiconecan also provide gloss and lubricity to the treated hair fiber. Stillfurther, a lubricant such as cyclomethicone can also add lubricity tosprayer orifices of a pump to prevent any clogging, which can beparticularly beneficial for use with solubilizer compositions that areformulated for spray on applications.

It should also be understood that the composition of the presentinvention can be provided in any desired compositional form. Forexample, and without limitation, the solubilizer compositions of thepresent invention can be formulated as a spray, gel, cream, mousse, andthe like. To this end, formulating hair care compositions as sprays,gels, creams, mousses, and the like is generally well-known to one orordinary skill in the art and can therefore be obtained through routineexperimentation. As such, the specific optimization and selection of thecomponents suitable for providing spray, gel, cream, and mousse is notdiscussed in detail herein.

As briefly summarized above, It has been discovered that thecompositions of the present invention can be used to solubilize avariety of hair styling aides, including without limitation, latexbonding agents and styling aides which contain fixative resins to obtainand maintain a desired hairstyle. In one aspect, the compositions of thepresent invention are especially well suited for use by consumers whouse styling aides on a daily basis without shampooing betweenapplications; use large quantities of resinous styling aides to obtain adesired style; have chemically-treated, dry or damaged hair; and/or usestyling aides in conjunction with heat to obtain and maintain theirdesired hairstyle.

Still further, it has also been discovered that the use of theseinventive compositions resulted in significantly less hair breakage,little or no drying effects on hair and scalp, little or no scalpirritation and, in some aspects, can actually prevent additional damageto the hair associated with the use of conventional stripping shampoos(cuticle lifting, hair swelling, etc) by eliminating the need for suchshampoos. Hair treated with the compositions of the current inventionnot only experienced significantly less breakage during combingexperiments, the hair was actually moisturized by the residual,non-toxic solvent left on the hair. The end result was hair withimproved appearance and combability (combability refers to the relativeamount of force required to pass a styling tool, such as a comb, throughthe hair assembly).

Accordingly, in another aspect, the present invention provides severalmethods for using the compositions of the present invention. Forexample, in one aspect, the compositions of the present invention can beused to provide an effective method for removing a hair styling agentfrom hair. For example, it has been discovered that the compositions ofthe present invention are suitable for solubilizing and removing hairbonding agents and, more particularly, hair-bonding agents comprised oflatex. Alternatively, these compositions are also effective insolubilizing and removing residues of resinous styling gels, sprays,spritz, or mousses.

According to this aspect, hair having a styling agent applied theretocan be contacted with one or more applications of a styling agentsolubilizer as described herein for a time sufficient to solubilize thestyling agent. Upon application of an amount sufficient to coat thehair, the solubilizing composition can remain in contact with the hairfor an amount of time in the range of from about 30 seconds up to about20 minutes, including exemplary periods of about 1 minute, about 2minutes, about 3 minutes, about 4 minutes, about 5 minutes, about 6minutes, about 7 minutes, about 8 minutes, about 9 minutes, or evenabout 10 minutes. Once the composition has been in contact for asufficient period of time and the hair styling agent has been at leastsubstantially solubilized, the hair can then optionally be combedthrough to separate any fibers that may have been previously adhered toone another by the hair styling agent.

After combing through the hair to disrupt any adhesions between hairfibers, the solubilized styling agent can then be removed from the hair.In one aspect, the solubilized styling agent can be removed by one ormore applications of a water rinse. Alternatively, the solubilizedstyling agent can be removed by one or more applications of a shampootreatment.

Still further, in another aspect, the compositions of the presentinvention can also be used to provide a method for restyling hair havingone or more styling agents previously applied thereto. Once again, thecompositions of the present invention are well suited for solubilizingand facilitating the restyling of hair having a number of conventionallyknown hair styling agents previously applied thereto, including forexample, latex bonding agents as well as residues of resinous stylinggels, sprays, sprits, or mousses.

Similar to the method of removal described above, hair having a stylingagent previously applied thereto can be contacted with one or moreapplications of a styling agent solubilizer as described herein for atime sufficient to solubilize the styling agent. Upon application of anamount sufficient to coat the hair, the solubilizing composition canremain in contact with the hair for an amount of time in the range offrom about 30 seconds up to about 20 minutes, including exemplaryperiods of about 1 minute, about 2 minutes, about 3 minutes, about 4minutes, about 5 minutes, about 6 minutes, about 7 minutes, about 8minutes, about 9 minutes, or even about 10 minutes. Once the compositionhas been in contact for a sufficient period of time and the hair stylingagent has been at least substantially solubilized, the hair canoptionally be combed through to separate any fibers that may have beenpreviously adhered to one another by the hair styling agent.

After combing through the hair to disrupt any adhesions between hairfibers, the treated hair having solubilized styling agent disposedthereon can then be restyled to a desired curl or configuration withoutrequiring the prior removal of the solubilized hair styling agent fromthe hair. After the hair has been restyled to a desired configuration,the solubilized hair styling agent can be dried to at leastsubstantially remove the solubilizing composition components and,consequently, to secure the hair in the new style or configuration.

In still another aspect, the compositions of the present invention canbe used to treat dry, coarse, and/or damaged hair in need of treatment.In one aspect, the treatment can comprise moisturizing the hair. Inanother aspect, treatment can comprise softening of the hair. Thetreatment can be provided by applying a coating of the inventivecompositions to the hair and allowing the applied coating to remain inplace without rinsing or combing the treated hair for a period of timesufficient to at least substantially penetrate the hair and until thecarrier has at least substantially evaporated. A heat source can also beused to complete the re-drying of any solubilized resinous hair stylingaides that may be present on the treated hair. Without intending to belimited by theory, it is believed that residual solvent trapped insidethe hair fibers can serve as a plasticizing agent which enhancesmoisture retention and refreshes the look of the treated hair. Stillfurther, the residual solvent can also enhance the flexibility and bodyof the treated hair.

EXPERIMENTAL

The following Examples are put forth so as to provide those of ordinaryskill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how thecompounds claimed herein are made and evaluated, and are intended to bepurely exemplary of the invention and are not intended to limit thescope of what the inventors regard as their invention. Efforts have beenmade to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers (e.g., amounts,temperature, etc.) but some errors and deviations should be accountedfor. Unless indicated otherwise, ingredient parts are indicated as partsby weight, temperature is in OF or is at room temperature, and pressureis at or near atmospheric.

Examples 1-5 Hair Bonding Agent Remover

TABLE 1 Inventive Examples 1 through 5 Ingredient Ex. 1 Ex. 2 Ex. 3 Ex.4 Ex. 5 Water 60.4 46.9 70.35 81.85 46.9 Methyl Soyate 15 20 10 5 0Soybean Oil 15 20 10 5 40 Polysorbate 80 6 6 3 1.5 6 Fragrance 0.60 0.900.45 0.45 0.90 Rheocare ATC 3.0 6.0 6.0 6.0 6.0 Crodarom 0.0 0.2 0.2 0.20.2 Carrot O

The compositions set forth in Table 1 above were applied to a latexrubber patch which had cured on the forearm skin and hair for 4 hours.After application, the compositions were allowed to remain on the latexpatch and surrounding skin for approximately 5 min. The latex patchestreated with inventive examples 1-4 were easily removed with no hairpulling or pain. The control composition of Ex. 5 (containing no activesolvent) was difficult to remove and caused a great deal of pain andhair loss. This evaluation was again repeated decreasing the applicationtime from 5 minutes to 2.5 minutes. Once again, the latex patchestreated with the compositions of Examples 1-4 were easily removedcompared to the control but were slightly more difficult to removerelative to the initial 5-min application test.

Examples 6-8 Resinous Hair Styling Gel Remover

TABLE 2 Inventive Examples 6 through 8 Ingredient Ex. 6 Ex. 7 Ex. 8Dipropylene Glycol 12.2 25 48.75 Ethanol (80 proof) 85.3 72.5 48.75PEG-75 Lanolin 1.00 1.00 1.00 Cyclomethicone 0.1 0.1 0.1 Fragrance 0.400.40 0.40 Polysorbate-20 1.0 1.0 1.0

Three inventive spray-type compositions, having the formulations setforth in Table 2 above, were prepared and tested for their ability toremove several commercially available resinous hair styling products setforth in Table 3 below.

TABLE 3 Commercially Available Resinous Styling Gels Sample ProductIngredients A Equate “Extra Hold” Styling Gel Water, PVP, Sorbitol,Carbomer, Fragrance, (Garcoa Labs; Calabras, CA) Keratin amino acids,Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Palmitoyl oligopeptide, Glycerylpolymethacrylate, Rahnelia/Soy protein ferment, PEG 8, PEG-75 lanolin,Propylene glycol, Glycerin, Oleth-20, Aminomethyl propanol, Potassiumsorbate, Tetrasodium EDTA, Methyl paraben, Diazodiniyl urea,Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Benzophenone-4, D&CRed #33, Red #40. B Proclaim Crystal Ice Water, Glycerin,Triethanolamine, PVP, (Beauty Labs, Inc.; Dallas, TX) Hydrolyzedkeratin, Carbomer, DMDM hydantoin, Methyl paraben, Polysorbate-20,Fragrance. C Ampro Pro-style Protein Styling Water Sodium salt ofCarbomer 940, Gel Hydrolyzed collagen, Propylene glycol, (AmproIndustries; Memphis, TN) Imidazolidinyl urea, Methyl paraben, Propylparaben, Caramel color, Fragrance. D Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion Water,Polyquaternium-11, SD alcohol 40, (Motions; Melrose Park, IL)Cetrimonium chloride, TEA lauroyl collagen, Amino acids, Dimethiconecopolyol, Panthenol, PEG-75 lanolin, Oleth-20, DMDM hydantoin,Fragrance. E Paul Mitchell Freeze and Shine SD alcohol 40, Water, SuperSpray Firm Hold Finishing Octylacrylamide/Acrylates/ButylaminoethylSpray methacrylate copolymer, Dimethicone, Bisamino (John Paul MitchellSystems; hydroxypropyl copolyol/Algae/Aloe Beverly Hills, CA)barbadensis leaf/Anthemis Nobilis/Henna/ Simmondsia Chinensis/RosmarniusOfficinalis/ Dimethicone copolyol, Panthenol, Benzophenone-3, Triethylcitrate, Cocamidopropyl betaine, Fragrance, Aminomethyl propanol. FSpiked Out Rock Hard Hold Deionized water, PVP/VA copolymer, Sorbitan(Vogue International; Tampa, FL) isostearate, Vinyl caprolactam/PVPDimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer, Petrolatum, Triconinyl PVP,Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl cellulose, Steareth-2, Stearyl alcohol, Cetylalcohol, Steareth-21, Corn starch modified, Cochearia Armoracia, Retinylpalmitate, Tocopheryl acetate, Ascorbyl acetate, Coffea Arabica,Macrocystis Pyfera, Caffeine, lodopropynyl butylcarbamate, Diazodinylurea, Propyl paraben, Methyl paraben, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance G Pump-itUp SDA 40 alcohol, PVM/MA copolymer, (Bronner Brothers; Atlanta, GA)Cyclomethicone, Silk Protein, Panthenol, D&C Red 33, Fragrance

The specific procedure used to evaluate the formulations of Examples 6,7 and 8 were as follows. First, individual tresses of Light BrownEuropean Hair (DeMeo Brothers Ltd.; New York), approximately 0.25 inchby 8 inches, were bound at the proximal end. Each tress was thenthoroughly combed with a clean, fine-toothed comb to remove any loose orbroken hairs before any further use. The commercial styling productswere then applied to the tresses in a manner consistent with themanufacturers suggested usage. A total of three tresses were preparedfor each product being evaluated. The tresses were then wound around a1.0-inch diameter glass tube and secured with a plastic curler clipimmediately after the application of the styling product. The tresseswere then allowed to air dry at least 24 hours before testing.

One tress from each group of three was reserved as a control. Thecontrol tresses were combed through without the application of any othertreatments. A second tress from each group of three was then treatedwith “gel remover” prototype consistent with the nature of the prototype(i.e., sprays were delivered from a fine-mist sprayer; gels were appliedwith fingertips, etc.). A time delay of 2.5 minutes was allowed beforethe treated tress was combed through with a fine-toothed comb. The thirdtress from each group of three was then treated with “gel remover”prototype consistent with the nature of the prototype. A time delay of5.0 minutes was allowed before the treated tress was combed through witha fine-toothed comb.

During testing, every attempt was made to use consistent force duringcombing. To that end, each tress was combed through using 10 strokeswith a fine-toothed comb. Additionally, the control tress was used tohelp minimize the effect of variables including, relative humidity,changes in combing force applied, and the like. After combing, brokenhairs were collected and counted. The hair breakage data from thesetests are set forth in Tables 4, 5 and 6 below:

TABLE 4 Effect of Spray-On Remover of Ex. 6 on Hair Breakage DuringCombing Tress Styling Delay between application Number of broken hairs #Product of remover and comb through from comb through 1 B Control 18 2 B2.5 min 4 3 B 5.0 min 1 4 A Control 49 5 A 2.5 min 7 6 A 5.0 min 4 7 CControl 31 8 C 2.5 min 1 9 C 5.0 min 1 10 D Control 15 11 D 2.5 min 1 12D 5.0 min 0 13 E Control 46 14 E 2.5 min 17 15 E 5.0 min Not available*16 F Control 25 17 F 2.5 min 2 18 F 5.0 min 0 19 G Control 128 20 G 2.5min 12 21 G 5.0 min 2 *Tress 15 was dropped and became wet with waterbefore combing could begin.

TABLE 5 Effect of Spray-On Remover of Ex. 7 on Hair Breakage DuringCombing Tress Styling Delay between application Number of broken hairs #Product of remover and comb through from comb through 22 B Control 50 23B 2.5 min 6 24 B 5.0 min 2 25 A Control 31 26 A 2.5 min 12 27 A 5.0 min1 28 C Control 91 29 C 2.5 min 3 30 C 5.0 min 2 31 D Control 31 32 D 2.5min 3 33 D 5.0 min 2 34 E Control 63 35 E 2.5 min 12 36 E 5.0 min 14 37F Control 105 38 F 2.5 min 3 39 F 5.0 min 12 40 G Control 283 41 G 2.5min 26 42 G 5.0 min 28

TABLE 6 Effect of Spray-On Remover of Ex. 8 on Hair Breakage DuringCombing Tress Styling Delay between application Number of broken hairs #Product of remover and comb through from comb through 43 B Control 58 44B 2.5 min 2 45 B 5.0 min 2 46 A Control 61 47 A 2.5 min 2 48 A 5.0 min 049 C Control 64 50 C 2.5 min 4 51 C 5.0 min 3 52 D Control 14 53 D 2.5min 1 54 D 5.0 min 2 55 E Control 96 56 E 2.5 min 0 57 E 5.0 min 0 58 FControl 149 59 F 2.5 min 1 60 F 5.0 min 0 61 G Control 166 62 G 2.5 minND** 63 G 5.0 min 0 **N/D means “not determined”. Tress was dropped andwet with water prior to combing.

A review of the data set forth in Tables 4, 5 and 6 indicates the eachof the sampled inventive hair styling gel removers resulted in adecreased number of broken hairs after combing compared to the controltresses in each test. The reduction in broken hairs indicates that lessdamage to the tress occurred when the inventive compositions were used.

Examples 9-12

Four inventive spray-type compositions, having varying concentrations ofdipropylene glycol as set forth in Table 7 below, were prepared andtested for their ability to remove the commercially available “Pump-itUp” resinous styling product from Table 3 above.

TABLE 7 Inventive Examples 9 through 12 Ingredient Ex. 9 Ex. 10 Ex. 11Ex. 12 Dipropylene Glycol (Dow 25 12.5 9.375 6.25 Chemical) SD-40Alcohol 72.9 85.4 88.525 91.65 PEG-75 Lanolin 1 1 1 1 (50% in water)Cyclomethicone 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 Coconut Melon Fragrance 0.4 0.40 0.400.40 Polysorbate-20 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6

The specific procedure used to evaluate the formulations of Examples9-12 were as follows. First, individual tresses of virgin 50% grey hair(DeMeo Brothers Ltd.; New York), approximately 0.25 inch by 8 inches,were bound at the proximal end. Two tresses were prepared for eachsample formulation being evaluated. A ninth control tress was alsoprepared. Each tress was then thoroughly combed with a clean,fine-toothed comb to remove any loose or broken hairs before any furtheruse. The Pump-it Up styling product was then applied to the nine tressesin a manner consistent with the manufacturers suggested usage. Thetresses were then wound around a 1.0-inch diameter glass tube andsecured with a plastic curler clip immediately after the application ofthe styling product. The tresses were then allowed to air dry at least24 hours before testing.

The control tress was first combed through without the application ofany other treatments. A first tress from each group of tressesdesignated for each sample formulation was then treated with theinventive spray composition of Examples 9-12, respectively. A time delayof 2.5 minutes was allowed before each treated tress was combed throughwith a fine-toothed comb. The second tress from each group of tressesdesignated for each sample formulation was then treated with theinventive spray composition of Examples 9-12, respectively. A time delayof 5.0 minutes was allowed before the second treated tresses were combedthrough with a fine-toothed comb.

During testing, every attempt was made to use consistent force duringcombing. To that end, each tress was combed through using 12 strokeswith a fine-toothed comb. Additionally, the control tress was used tohelp minimize the effect of variables including, relative humidity,changes in combing force applied, and the like. After combing, brokenhairs were collected and counted. The hair breakage data from thesetests are set forth in Table 8 below:

TABLE 8 Effect of Examples 9 through 12 on Hair Breakage During CombingNumber of Tress Delay between application broken hairs # Composition ofremover and comb through from comb through 64 Control Control 136 65 Ex.9 2.5 min 11 66 Ex. 10 2.5 min 10 67 Ex. 11 2.5 min 32 68 Ex. 12 2.5 min59 64 Control Control 136 69 Ex. 9 5.0 min 0 70 Ex. 10 5.0 min 4 71 Ex.11 5.0 min 35 72 Ex. 12 5.0 min 46

A review of the data set forth in Table 8 indicates that the inventivecompositions of Examples 9, 10, 11, and 12 resulted in a decreasednumber of broken hairs after combing compared to the control tresses ineach test. The reduction in broken hairs indicates that less damage tothe tress occurred when the inventive compositions were used. Stillfurther, the reduction in broken hairs resulted among varyingconcentrations of the dipropylene glycol.

Subjective evaluations of hair stickiness, ease of combing, and feel oftreated tresses also yielded the following observations. There was adirect correlation between the ease of combing, residual stickiness, andafter feel of the tresses and the amount of dipropylene glycol in thegel remover formula. Tresses treated with 25 wt % and 12.5 wt %dipropylene glycol were easier to comb, and had a softer, less stickyfeel than the other tresses. The tress treated with the gel removerformula containing 25 wt % dipropylene glycol was also noticeably easierto comb, had no stickiness, and had a very good after feel. The tresstreated with a gel remover containing 12.5 wt % dipropylene glycol wasstill easy to comb but there was more drag and some slight stickiness.The tresses treated with a gel remover containing 9.375 wt % dipropyleneglycol were sticky and difficult to comb. The tress treated with 6.25 wt% dipropylene glycol was the most difficult to comb and the hair wasextremely sticky. The time of application did not seem to affect thefeel and combability of tresses treated with formulas containing 9.375wt % and 6.25 wt % dipropylene glycol.

Examples 13-16

Four inventive spray-type compositions, having varying concentrations ofdipropylene glycol in combination with water, as set forth in Table 9below, were prepared and tested for their ability to remove thecommercially available “Pump-it Up” resinous styling product from Table3 above.

TABLE 9 Inventive Examples 13 through 16 Ingredient Ex. 13 Ex. 14 Ex. 15Ex. 16 Control(b) Dipropylene Glycol 25 12.5 9.375 6.25 0.0 (DowChemical) Water 71.98 84.48 87.605 90.73 96.98 Carbopol EDT 2020 0.350.35 0.35 0.35 0.35 Methylparaben 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 Propylparaben 0.10.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 Cyclomethicone 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 Polysorbate-200.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 TEA 99% 0.32 0.32 0.32 0.32 0.32 PEG-75 Lanolin 1 11 1 1 (50% in water) Coconut Melon 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 Fragrance

The specific procedure used to evaluate the formulations of Examples13-16 were as follows. First, individual tresses of virgin 50% grey hair(DeMeo Brothers Ltd.; New York), approximately 0.25 inch by 8 inches,were bound at the proximal end. Two tresses were prepared for eachinventive sample formulation being evaluated and also two tresses wereprepared for the wet control (b) formulation comprising water withoutdipropylene glycol. An eleventh tress was also prepared for use as a drycontrol which received no remover formulation. Each tress was thenthoroughly combed with a clean, fine-toothed comb to remove any loose orbroken hairs before any further use. The Pump-it Up styling product wasthen applied to the eleven tresses in a manner consistent with themanufacturers suggested usage. The tresses were then wound around a1.0-inch diameter glass tube and secured with a plastic curler clipimmediately after the application of the styling product. The tresseswere then allowed to air dry at least 24 hours before testing.

The dry control tress was first combed through without the applicationof any other treatments. A first tress from each group of remainingtresses designated for each sample formulation of examples 13 to 16 andfor the wet control (b) formulation were treated with the respectiveformulations. A time delay of 2.5 minutes was allowed before eachtreated tress was combed through with a fine-toothed comb. The secondtress from each group of tresses designated for each sample formulationof examples 13 to 16 and for the wet control (b) formulation were thentreated with the respective formulations. A time delay of 5.0 minuteswas allowed before the second treated tresses were combed through with afine-toothed comb.

During testing, every attempt was made to use consistent force duringcombing. To that end, each tress was combed through using 12 strokeswith a fine-toothed comb. Additionally, the control tress was used tohelp minimize the effect of variables including, relative humidity,changes in combing force applied, and the like. After combing, brokenhairs were collected and counted. The hair breakage data from thesetests are set forth in Table 10 below:

TABLE 10 Effect of Examples 13 through 16 on Hair Breakage DuringCombing Number of Tress Delay between application broken hairs #Composition of remover and comb through from comb through 73 Dry ControlControl 113 74 Control (b) 2.5 min 88 75 Ex. 13 2.5 min 10 76 Ex. 14 2.5min 11 77 Ex. 15 2.5 min 9 78 Ex. 16 2.5 min 22 73 Dry Control Control113 79 Control (b) 5.0 min 58 80 Ex. 13 5.0 min 0 81 Ex. 14 5.0 min 2 82Ex. 15 5.0 min 7 83 Ex. 16 5.0 min 32

Examples 17-19

TABLE 11 Styling Residue Remover Containing Tripropylene GlycolIngredient Ex. 17 Ex. 18 Ex. 19 Tripropylene glycol (Dow Chemical) 48.7525.00 12.20 Ethanol (80 proof) 48.75 72.5 85.3 PEG-75 Lanolin (SuperSolan Flaked; 1.00 1.00 1.00 Croda, Inc.) Cyclomethicone 0.10 0.10 0.10Melon fragrance 0.40 0.40 0.40 Polysorbate-20 1.00 1.00 1.00

The inventive compositions set forth in Table 10 above, containingtripropylene glycol as the active solvent, were prepared and evaluatedfor their ability to solubilize the commercially available fixativeproduct Pump-it-Up, from Bonner Brothers (Atlanta, Ga.). The evaluationprocedures set forth above and used to evaluate Examples 6-8 werefollowed. The data obtained from these tests are given in Table 12below.

TABLE 12 Effect of Examples 17 through 19 on Hair Breakage DuringCombing Number of Tress Delay between application broken hairs #Composition of remover and comb through from comb through 84 — Control224 85 Ex. 17 2.5 min 28 86 Ex. 17 5.0 min 38 87 — Control 281 88 Ex. 182.5 min 73 89 Ex. 18 5.0 min 14 90 — Control 216 91 Ex. 19 2.5 min 67 92Ex. 19 5.0 min 58

Once again, a review of the data set forth in Table 12 indicates thatthe inventive compositions of Examples 17, 18 and 19 resulted in adecreased number of broken hairs after combing compared to the controltresses in each test. The reduction in broken hairs indicates that lessdamage to the tress occurred when the inventive compositions were used.

Examples 20-22

TABLE 13 Styling Residue Remover Containing Methyl Soyate Ingredient Ex.20 Ex. 21 Ex. 22 Methyl Soyate 48.75 25.00 12.20 (Columbus Foods,Columbus, OH.) Ethanol (80 proof) 48.75 72.5 85.3 PEG-75 Lanolin 1.001.00 1.00 (Super Solan Flaked; Croda, Inc.) Cyclomethicone 0.10 0.100.10 Melon fragrance 0.40 0.40 0.40 Polysorbate-20 1.00 1.00 1.00

The inventive compositions set forth in Table 13 above, containingmethyl soyate as the active solvent, were prepared and evaluated fortheir ability to solubilize the commercially available fixative productPump-it-Up, from Bonner Brothers. The evaluation procedures set forthabove and used to evaluate Examples 6-8 were followed. The data obtainedfrom these tests are given in Table 14 below.

TABLE 14 Effect of Examples 20 through 22 on Hair Breakage DuringCombing Number of Tress Delay between application broken hairs #Composition of remover and comb through from comb through 93 — Control266 94 Ex. 20 2.5 min 13 95 Ex. 20 5.0 min 23 96 — Control 211 97 Ex. 212.5 min 52 98 Ex. 21 5.0 min 44 99 — Control 237 100 Ex. 22 2.5 min 71101 Ex. 22 5.0 min 63

A review of the data set forth in Table 14 indicates that the inventivecompositions of Examples 20, 21, and 22 resulted in a decreased numberof broken hairs after combing compared to the control tresses in eachtest. The reduction in broken hairs indicates that less damage to thetress occurred when the inventive compositions were used.

Example 23 Straightened Hair Without Removal of Styling Aid

A gel remover spray having the same composition as given in Example 7was applied to the hair of a consumer whose hair contained heavy stylingresidues. The composition was left in place a period of time sufficientto loosen the residues (from 1 to 5 minutes generally) and the hair wascombed through. A commercial hair-straightening system (ProfectivAnti-Damage Therapeutic relaxer; Strength of Nature; Savannah, Ga.) wasused to effectively straighten the hair without the need for firstrinsing or shampooing to remove the loosened styling residues. Thetreated hair was effectively straightened and no scalp irritation wasnoted.

Example 24 Restyled Curled Hair Without Removal of Styling Aid

A tress of DeMeo Light Brown European hair was treated with acommercially available fixative (Pump-It-Up; Bonner Brothers) andallowed to dry in a curled configuration. Gel remover spray compositioncontaining approximately 15 wt % dipropylene glycol was applied to thehair and allowed to sit for 5 min. The tress was then combed throughwithout damage. The excess gel-remover was blotted from the hair and thetress was curled in the opposite direction and locked into place byapplying more commercial fixative. The resulting curl was morepreferable to the previous in that it had a softer quality and morebody.

1. A composition for removing a hair styling composition from hair,comprising a) at least one active solvent, wherein the at least oneactive solvent is a glycol or an ester; and b) a carrier comprising aliquid vehicle, wherein the composition is suitable for applying to hairand removing a hair styling composition applied thereto.
 2. Thecomposition of claim 1, wherein the carrier further comprises at leastone of a strengthener, surfactant, fragrance, moisturizer, skinconditioner, hair conditioner, and a rheology modifier.
 3. Thecomposition of claim 1, wherein the liquid vehicle comprises water. 4.The composition of claim 1, wherein the liquid vehicle comprises analkanol.
 5. The composition of claim 4, wherein the liquid vehiclecomprises ethanol.
 6. The composition of claim 1, wherein the at leastone active solvent is present in an amount in the range of from 5 weightpercent to 85 weight percent of the composition.
 7. The composition ofclaim 6, wherein the at least one active solvent is present in an amountin the range of from 15 weight percent to 80 weight percent of thecomposition.
 8. The composition of claim 6, wherein the at least oneactive solvent is present in an amount in the range of from 15 weightpercent to 60 weight percent of the composition.
 9. The composition ofclaim 1, wherein the at least one active solvent is a glycol.
 10. Thecomposition of claim 9, wherein the glycol comprises a propylene glycol,dipropylene glycol, or tripropylene glycol.
 11. The composition of claim1, wherein the at least one active solvent is an ester.
 12. Thecomposition of claim 11, wherein the at least one active solventcomprises methyl soyate.
 13. A method for removing a hair styling agentfrom hair, comprising the steps of: a) providing hair that has a hairstyling agent applied thereto; b) contacting the hair with one or moreapplications of a styling agent remover for a time sufficient tosolubilize the styling agent, wherein the styling agent removercomprises at least one active solvent and wherein the at least oneactive solvent is a glycol or an ester; c) combing the treated hair toseparate two or more hairs adhered by the hair styling agent; and d)removing the solubilized styling agent from the hair.
 14. The method ofclaim 13, wherein the solubilized styling agent is removed by a waterrinse.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the solubilized styling agentis removed by a shampoo treatment.
 16. The method of claim 13, whereinthe hair styling agent is a hair bonding agent.
 17. The method of claim16, wherein the hair bonding agent comprises latex.
 18. The method ofclaim 16, wherein the hair styling agent is a residue of a resinousstyling gel, spray, spritz, or mousse.
 19. The method of claim 13,wherein the time sufficient to solubilize the styling agent is in therange of from approximately 1 to approximately 5 minutes.
 20. The methodof claim 13, wherein the at least one active solvent is a glycol. 21.The method of claim 20, wherein the glycol comprises a propylene glycol,dipropylene glycol, or tripropylene glycol.
 22. The method of claim 13,wherein the at least one active solvent is an ester.
 23. The method ofclaim 22, wherein the at least one active solvent comprises methylsoyate.
 24. The method of claim 13, wherein the hair styling agentremover further comprises a carrier composition comprising a liquidvehicle and one or more of a strengthener, surfactant, fragrance,moisturizer, skin conditioner, hair conditioner, and a rheologymodifier.
 25. A method for restyling hair having one or more stylingagents applied thereto, comprising the steps of: a) providing hair thathas a hair styling agent applied thereto; b) contacting the hair withone or more applications of a styling agent remover for a timesufficient to solubilize the styling agent and to provide treated hairhaving the solubilized styling agent applied thereto, wherein thestyling agent remover comprises at least one active solvent, and whereinthe at least one active solvent is a glycol or an ester; c) restylingthe hair and solubilized styling agent into a desired configuration; andd) at least substantially drying the solubilized styling agent to securethe restyled hair in the desired configuration.
 26. The method of claim25, wherein the method does not comprise the removal of the hair stylingagent applied thereto.
 27. The method of claim 25, wherein prior to stepc) the treated hair is combed to separate two or more hairs adhered bythe hair styling agent.
 28. The method of claim 25, wherein the hairstyling agent is a hair bonding agent.
 29. The method of claim 28,wherein the hair bonding agent comprises latex.
 30. The method of claim28, wherein the hair styling agent is a residue of a resinous stylinggel, spray, spritz, or mousse.
 31. The method of claim 25, wherein thetime sufficient to solubilize the styling agent is in the range of fromapproximately 1 to approximately 5 minutes.
 32. The method of claim 25,wherein the at least one active solvent is a glycol.
 33. The method ofclaim 32, wherein the glycol comprises a propylene glycol, dipropyleneglycol, or tripropylene glycol.
 34. The method of claim 25, wherein theat least one active solvent is an ester.
 35. The method of claim 34,wherein the at least one active solvent comprises methyl soyate.
 36. Themethod of claim 25, wherein the hair styling agent remover furthercomprises a carrier composition comprising a liquid vehicle and one ormore of a strengthener, surfactant, fragrance, moisturizer, skinconditioner, hair conditioner, and a rheology modifier.
 37. A method oftreating hair in need of treatment, comprising the steps of: a)providing hair in need of treatment; b) contacting the hair in need oftreatment with one or more applications of a treatment compositioncomprising i) at least one active solvent, wherein the at least oneactive solvent is a glycol or an ester; and ii) a carrier comprising aliquid vehicle; and c) allowing the treatment composition to remain incontact with the hair in need of treatment for a period of timesufficient to at least substantially penetrate the hair.
 38. The methodof claim 37, wherein the hair in need of treatment is dry hair andwherein the treatment composition moisturizes the dry.
 39. The method ofclaim 37, wherein the hair in need of treatment is coarse hair andwherein the treatment composition softens the coarse hair.
 40. Themethod of claim 37, wherein the treatment composition remains in contactwith the hair for a period of time sufficient to allow the carrier to atleast has at least substantially evaporate.